How to Reduce Bedroom Allergens

Many people suffer from allergies, asthma and respiratory illness and our home can be the worst offender in aggravating these conditions. One of the most effective ways to minimize symptoms is to reduce bedroom allergens, and these tips can help you so that you can breathe easier.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plastic covers
• Steam cleaner
• Air purifer (optional)

1. Cover both your mattress and box springs with plastic. Beds harbor many irritants including dust mites, bacteria and molds. If your mattress is older you may want to consider a new one, especially if it has been exposed to significant moisture and dust. Steam cleaning is another option. Look into newer mattress covers with a polyurethane backing and absorbent cloth topping for less noise and slippage. Note that some individuals are sensitive to the fumes.

2. Invest in hypoallergenic pillows and cover these in plastic as well or try a bacteria-resistant filling and change the pillow cases at least a couple of times a week. Some individuals prefer less expensive pillows that can be replaced regularly.

3. Reduce bedroom allergens by ridding your bedroom of books, papers and seasonal clothing. Keep these in a separate room or in waterproof storage. If the items smell musty they need to be discarded or sealed away from any sleeping quarters.

4. Dust your bedroom at least once a week but avoid simply moving the dust into the air. First use a good dust catcher, such as a microfiber towel, optionally add anti-dust spray. Wait 30 minutes, then thoroughly vacuum or sweep the floor when the dust settles.

5. Consider removing wall-to-wall carpet to significantly reduce allergens in your bedroom. Otherwise, steam clean the carpet every three months, or more often, as needed. A lightweight, modestly-priced, home carpet steamer is sufficient for most people.

6. Keep pets out of the bedroom. This is tough if you are accustomed to having them by your side. The alternative, if pet dander and hair aggravates your condition, is to bathe them regularly and consult your health provider on allergy medicines that work for these specific triggers.

7. Switch to vertical blinds if you detest dusting standard ones or eliminate them altogether. Other culprits are window treatments that will need to be washed or steam cleaned regularly.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider an air treatment system to reduce bedroom allergens, such as an air purifier. A dehumidifier is helpful in homes prone to excess moisture and mildew.
• Keep your air filters changed or cleaned at least four times a year.
• Clean the baseboards, ceiling fan, closet and drawers regularly.

[kllmomof2]

on 5/28/2008 Great advice, I wish I could keep the pets out of the room. If I close the door, the cat will sit outside the door and meow gradually getting louder and louder.